I've owned at least one model from most series of 911's beginning with
1972,
but missed the "964" series (1990-1994).
Alan's advice is pretty much on target: The older cars are "older cars"
and
if you're into classics and will accommodate their eccentricities and
aging
replacement needs, so be it. However, if you want the benefit of the most
modern engineering, then you buy the latest model you can afford.
If you're in a warm climate, I'd certainly opt for one of the water-cooled
996 or 997 models. The A/C really works and the engine temperatures won't
give you a headache.
Best older models:
'87-89 Carreras (not incl the '89 C4) These are the first ****sches with
Bosch's Motronic ignition/fuel injection and these years also got a new
transmission with a hydraulic assisted clutch. These are also the last
911's that are reasonably easy to work on without all kinds of electronic
diagnostic equipment.
'96-98...These (993 series) are the cream of the air-cooled cars and seem
to
be holding their value. Note that the '98 cars are all Carrera-S models,
built with the wide body...similar to the Turbo.
'01-04...By '01, ****sche had corrected the nuisances of the early
('99-'00)
996 water cooled cars. The '02's on have an extra 25 hp, compliments of
the
engine being 3.6 L as opposed to 3.4 L.
'05-07...These 997 models represent some significant engineering advances.
The "Carrera-S" models have larger, 3.8 L engines with 355 HP. I just got
one (06) and it's simply gratifying to drive. Improved handling/steering,
improved interior ergonomics, and lots of torque and HP. They're
expensive
right now, but in 2 years...if that's your time frame, the '05's and '06's
should be down from the stratosphere.
If you live and drive in snow, consider a C4 (all wheel drive) model.
And...as Alan noted: Don't buy any used ****sche without a comprehensive
pre-purchase inspection by a reputable shop....preferable NOT the one who
regularly services it. You don't want any nasty (read that expensive)
post
purchase problems as poorly maintained ****sche can become a "money-pit".
Join PCA (****sche Club of America)...you'll have a local chapter to learn
from and get the national magazine and access to the website "market"
where
many of the better maintained cars are posted for sale.
Good luck and regards from Texas!
"wtrplnet" <wd12@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message
news:472eb4db$0$5013$4c368faf@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> <dchorney@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote in message
> news:1194231619.639512.5480@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
>>I am looking to buy a used 911, but am curious about the difference
>> between the air-cooled older models vs. the new water-cooled engines.
>> I know a lot of ****sche "purists" believe the older air-cooled models
>> are the only true ****sches, but I wanted to hear some opinions on what
>> people think is the best way to go before purchasing my first ****sche
>> (I'm still two years away, but want to start doing research and test-
>> driving soon). I'm probably looking for a model between 1998 and 2004,
>> putting me on the cusp between the switch-over in air vs. water - has
>> anyone had experience driving both? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
>>
>> I'm also interested in hearing what people think is the #1 thing to
>> know before getting a ****sche for the first time (a used one). Is
>> there any one great piece of advice that people were told or have
>> learned that they'd like to pass on?
>>
>> Any help would be appreciated - thank you.
>>
>> -Dan
>>
>
>
> A lot of ****sche purists think the only real ****sche is a 356! What I
> have to say is mostly opinion, I've never owned a water cooled 911, but
> I've owned air cooled ones, and have driven many water cooled 911's.
The
> oldest 911's I've driven (owned) were 1974's. I've driven most every
year
> since then up to 2006. The new ones are much more sophisticated,
> comfortable, faster, better handling, but they all drive like 911's.
The
> DNA is there in every one.
>
> If I were buying a recent 911 I'd surely go with the latest one I could
> afford. As far as 'air' vs 'water', in my opinion with increasing
demands
> from more HP, accessories like air conditioning on virtually every car,
> more weight, etc, it all became more difficult to manage with air
cooling.
> Oil temp in the air cooled cars varied widely depending on load, and
that
> can't be great for any engine. I 'believe' that water cooling
contributes
> to a more stable temperature operating range.
>
> In any case it's very im****tant that you have the car inspected
thoroughly
> by someone who is expert in ****sche repair/maintenance. It doesn't take
> much for an overlooked problem to translate to many thousands of dollars
> in unexpected repairs.
>
> If you're in the US ****sche Club of America is a great resource for
> finding anything ****sche related. I'm sure there are good clubs in most
> countries.
>
> Good luck with your search, there is nothing like a 911. As they say,
> "there is no substitute."
>
> Alan
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